Certain foods have been proven to help keep you alert.
Students often eat foods rich with "brain power" while preparing for tests, thinking that certain foods will give them somewhat superhuman powers. The truth is, there are many types of foods that increase energy and mental alertness, but there is no magic involved. The best way to take advantage of food for increased mental alertness is to eat a healthy diet all year round. The long-term effects of eating foods rich in energy, nutrients and antioxidants is far more effective than binge eating during finals.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates is the biological name for sugars. There are two basic types of sugar--simple and complex. Simple sugars are found in desserts and sodas in the form of glucose. These food items cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, and also a sudden drop. The drop may leave many people feeling more fatigued than before. For an energy boost eat complex sugars, as they cause your blood sugar to increase gradually, and the effect also wears off gradually. Examples of complex carbs are grains, cereals, pastas and natural fruit sugars.
Coffee
Coffee is usually the first thing most people think of when they want to perk up their level of alertness. "A number of important studies have shown that coffee may make you more alert and even boost your learning abilities and powers of reasoning," says Martha McKittrick, a registered dietitian with New York-Presbyterian Hospital. Four of these studies are listed at coffeescience.org/alert, as listed in the References section.
Fish
Fish contains protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Protein helps you stay full longer than do carbohydrates. Protein in fish contains an amino acid called tyrosine, which causes an increase in the production of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals cause an increase in mental alertness and energy. Omega-3 fatty acids boost energy and are also good for lowering cholesterol.
Nuts
Nuts are rich in vitamins; such as E, biotin, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as antioxidants. Nuts also make great snacks throughout the day. You can keep them handy in your bag for a quick and healthy snack at work. Try almonds, peanuts, cashews, Brazil nuts and pecans. Avoid eating fried and over-salted nuts, because frying gets rid of the vitamins and antioxidants, and sodium causes hypertension and fluid retention.
Tags: fatty acids, blood sugar, foods rich, mental alertness